Venom: Let There Be Carnage is the 2021 blockbuster sequel to Venom. The movie is rated PG-13 and contains some graphic content. The runtime clocks in at about one and a half hours, which is uncommon for this genre as it is not enough time to establish new characters, this becomes one of the larger issues with the movie.

From the beginning of the movie, there are clear pacing issues. The first scene takes place after the post-credits scene of the first film, so if you don’t remember it, I’d recommend a quick re-watch to make these scenes feel less awkward. The pacing issues become even more apparent as we see the main villain, Cletus Kassidy (Carnage), have his entire origin rushed. This was a disappointment as Carnage is one of Venom’s most infamous rivals in the comic.

This issue with the main villain does not mean that the performance was bad. Woody Harrelson does an amazing job as the titular villain, furthermore, Tom Hardy delivers an entertaining role as Venom. Sadly the issues continue throughout the movie. Such as Carnage’s motives being based on love rather than insanity, which is not accurate for his character. The ending of this movie is lukewarm at best and leaves an incomplete sense of “meh.”

The movie also supports more of a rom-com mood, which once again, feels largely inappropriate when the villain is a deranged serial killer. The most redeeming aspect of this movie sadly takes place after the film wraps, in the post-credit scene. Without spoiling it, this scene is absolutely worth seeing the movie for and will be a welcome surprise to any fans of Marvel content.

I would recommend this movie, but only if you are already a fan of marvel content, otherwise, this movie will leave a bland impression, it’s nothing special but it has plenty of enjoyable moments.